Definition of Mood Stabilizers

The past 15 years have seen the advent of mood stabilizers as treatment for various psychiatric illnesses. Although psychiatrists are not entirely sure how mood stabilizers work, these drugs induce a sense of calm. They are particularly effective treatments for mania and the cyclic moods of bipolar disorder.

Effects

• Mood stabilizers most often are prescribed to suppress manic symptoms and prevent mood cycles. The drugs also are intended to control depressive symptoms; however, research has shown that mood stabilizers are only sometimes effective as antidepressants.

Uses

• Mood stabilizers are most often used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. The drugs also treat borderline personality disorder (BPD) and sometimes can control some symptoms of anxiety.

Types

• Lithium is the most often prescribed mood stabilizer. Atypical antipsychotics such as olanzapine and risperidone and anticonvulsants such as valproate, carbamazepine and lamotrigine are used to control mood polarities, as well.

Mechanisms

• It is believed that lithium elevates levels of brain serotonin and thereby stabilizes mood. There is less research to explain the properties of anticonvulsants and atypical antipsychotics.

Considerations

• These medications can cause extreme side effects. Most cause nausea and weight gain. Lithium can be toxic. Patients who take mood stabilizers should undergo therapy to discuss the importance of medication compliance.